Spider Web 1975

Alexander Calder created this untitled gouache painting in 1975, presenting a playful yet structurally intriguing composition. The artwork features bold shapes and primary colors that immediately capture the eye, set against an off-white background. The composition is carefully balanced, with the left side dominated by a yellow and red circle, and spiderweb. To the right we have a blue semi-circle with alternating stripes of black and yellow above it. The black outlines define each shape, reinforcing its presence and contributing to the overall graphic quality. This interplay of flat planes of color with linear elements creates a dynamic tension. Calder was known for his mobiles and stabiles, and this painting translates his sculptural ideas into two dimensions. The shapes evoke a sense of movement and balance, reminiscent of his kinetic sculptures. The painting also reveals a sophisticated understanding of color theory and spatial relations. It’s a joyful, yet thoughtful, exploration of form and space.